Crystal Castles - (III)

It’s difficult to please everyone at once but Crystal Castles somehow manage it. During their eight years of existence the two (wo/)man band have struck a chord with hipsters, dance fans, critics and, of course, Robert Smith, alike. Their brand of electronica with it’s shadow of punk rock has ripped up festivals and dancefloors all over the world. In a couple of words; get ready to dance... in a slightly off-kilter, distorted way whilst still feeling cool! Crystal Castles, Canada’s premiere experimental electronica band, manned by producer Ethan Kath and according to NME, the world’s coolest person, Alice Glass, are back with their third album, the imaginatively titled (III). After the success of the equally imaginatively titled (II), can Crystal Castles gain the critical acclaim and universal love that they garnered with their first two releases?

Of course they can! They’re Crystal Castles, what else did you expect? (III) is a collection of twelve pulsating, floor-filling electronica tracks propelled by Glass’ distinct howl and Kath’s perfect production. From the opening beat of "Plague" to the closing ambient of "Child I Will Hurt You", (III) leaves the listener in a state of slightly confused other-worldliness, but an awesome confused other-worldliness, at that. The record kicks off with single "Plague", its pumping beat and Glass’ somewhat disconnected vocal performance render it both anthemic and abrasive simultaneously. Although the track is ultimately quite strange, it has a quality that makes it seem, somehow, catchy. It could be the repetitive beat or the seemingly primitive chorus, but there is certainly an accessible element within the track that hasn’t really been present in previous efforts by the band. This applies to most of the record. "Kerosene" and it’s 8bit game leanings is quite simply put, a song for goth parties, however it has an infectious beat and towards the end of the track, there certainly is potential for a singalong. Closer, "Child I Will Hurt You" takes the newfound accessibility to another level with it’s twinkling and general dream-pop vibe. Sounding like it would fit right in amongst Beach House’s repertoire, the track shows why, actually, Crystal Castles edging towards a softer sounder sound may not be a bad thing and it’s a highlight of the release.

Don’t worry though, if you want esoteric, Crystal Castles will always provide. “Insulin” is absolutely crazy and is basically the listening equivalent to staring at flashing strobe lighting for two minutes. Although the individual parts of the track are somewhat indistinguishable, “Insulin” makes for an intense listening experience. “Transgender” is incredibly haunting. The bouncy beat, disembodied vocals and cold, repetitive lyrics (“You’ll never be pure again”) are at one with one another and they leave listener tapping their foot and crying about the futility of life simultaneously. Throughout the release Glass’ vocals are quite perfect. She does exactly what we’ve come to expect from her and her voice remains as wild and distinct as ever. It would be interesting to hear Glass a little clearer sometimes, as often throughout the record her vocals are a little drowned out by the omnipresent wall of sound. Whilst this may be intentional, the vocals and lyrics don’t get a chance to shine on the record. The production on the record is pretty spectacular with highly similar beats being used in very different ways, so the album never comes across too repetitive.

Largely, (III) is an excellent album. Crystal Castles have not just recreated their first two records, they have developed as a band and their sound has morphed greatly. At certain parts of the record, it feels like Crystal Castles have sacrificed their experimentation and innovation for a, dare I say, more straight up sound. Much of (III) could soundtrack any indie dancefloor around the world and there are no doubts that it shall propel the duo further in the eyes of their public, however there is a slight fear that future releases may lead more into the dance-pop area, something which could be disastrous for the band, but right now, Crystal Castles have honed their sound to it’s best form so far and they are the best at what they do.

Recommended If You Like

Health; The xx crossed with Justice; Purity Ring; dancing yourself into a fit of tears

"Kath’s perfect production" I disagree. Some of the songs have too much low end and it drowns out the rest. I don't like saying this because Crystal Castles is probably my favorite band after Van Halen.

"Kath’s perfect production" I disagree. Some of the songs have too much low end and it drowns out the rest. I don't like saying this because Crystal Castles is probably my favorite band after Van Halen.

The production is very hit or miss. Works for some songs, others not at all.